Three years ago, I was approached by a representative of Dubai First bank (owned by First Abu Dhabi Bank, FAB) offering me a credit card that was supposed to be free for life. I applied for it, but shortly after, even before the card arrived, I thought that I did not need this card and told the representative to cancel my application. He advised me that it was enough to not activate the card, as it is free for life card anyway. Fast forward three years, I received an email, billing me for Dh290. I tried to call FAB, but they told me they are not responsible for this and gave me another number, directing me to Dubai First. However, I tried for more than two weeks but the number did not work and they did not have any physical locations. Now I got another bill on my email for Dh290. I called FAB again and they gave me another number. I called this number and the customer service representative told me that I have an outstanding amount of Dh3,090. She told me that I have to pay this amount even though I never even activated the card!
Please raise awareness of this issue as many people may fall prey to a scheme like this.
From Mr Hussain Mustafa
Sharjah
The management of FAB responds: FAB supports the growth ambitions of its stakeholders and goes beyond financial products and services, and as such, we are grateful for all customer feedback as we strive to consistently deliver the highest standards of service. The bank has been in contact with Mr Mustafa, and the case has been resolved.
Mr Mustafa responds: Thank you so much Gulf News for your help. FAB indeed contacted me and they agreed to waive off all the excess charges. Thank you Gulf News for listening, it makes me feel good that there are still organisations who want to do good for the community.
(Process initiation: June 8. Response from organisation: June 13. Reader confirmation: June 13.)
